If you have been the victim of a data breach, you may be entitled to compensation for any damages or losses you have suffered as a result. This could include financial losses, such as stolen funds or identity theft, as well as non-financial damages such as emotional distress and loss of privacy.

The amount of compensation available in a data breach case can depend on a range of factors, including the severity and scope of the breach, the sensitivity of the information that was compromised, and the level of negligence or wrongdoing on the part of the organisation responsible for safeguarding the data.

In this guide, we will explore the various factors that can influence the amount of compensation in a data breach case, and provide a step-by-step overview of the process for making a claim. We will also provide guidance on how to find the right legal representation and maximise your chances of success.

If you have been the victim of a data breach and have questions or would like to start a claim, please do not hesitate to contact us to speak with one of our knowledgeable expert advisors.

You can reach our advisors via any of the following methods:

• By Phone 0800 408 7827
• Complete the contact form.
• Live chat with us right away.

What Constitutes A Data Breach?

A data breach can occur in a variety of ways, but it generally involves the unauthorised access, disclosure, or theft of personal or sensitive information. This can include personal identifying information such as name, address, date of birth, or financial information such as bank account or credit card details. In some cases, a data breach can also involve the disclosure of sensitive or confidential business information, such as trade secrets or intellectual property.

If you have been the victim of a data breach, you may be eligible for compensation if you have suffered financial or non-financial damages as a result. However, not all data breaches will qualify for compensation, and there are certain eligibility criteria that must be met.

Under the Data Protection Act 2018, the organisation responsible for safeguarding the data must have wrongfully breached their duty to protect it, either through negligence or deliberate wrongdoing. Additionally, you must have suffered damages as a direct result of the breach. This can include financial losses such as stolen funds or the cost of credit monitoring, as well as non-financial damages such as emotional distress or damage to reputation.

How Long Do I Have To Claim?

It is important to note that there is a time limit for making a claim for compensation in a data breach case. Under the Limitation Act 1980, you generally have six years from the date of the breach to bring a claim. However, it is important to act quickly as evidence can become more difficult to obtain over time. Plus, claims against public bodies or that involve human rights breaches may only come with a 1 year limitation period.

If you believe you have been the victim of a data breach and meet the eligibility criteria for compensation, we encourage you to speak with one of our expert advisors today to discuss your options and start the claims process.

What Factors Could Influence Compensation For A Data Breach Case?

The amount of compensation awarded in a data breach claim can vary widely depending on a range of factors. One key factor is the severity of the breach itself. A breach that involves a large amount of sensitive or personal information, such as a healthcare data breach, may result in higher compensation amounts compared to a breach that involves less sensitive information.

Another important factor is the extent of the damages suffered by the claimant. This can include financial losses, such as stolen funds or the cost of credit monitoring services, as well as non-financial damages such as emotional distress or psychological harm. The severity and duration of any psychological harm or emotional distress suffered by the claimant can also be a significant factor in determining compensation amounts.

Evidence is also crucial in determining the amount of compensation awarded in a data breach claim. The more evidence that can be provided to support the claim, such as documentation of financial losses or medical records documenting psychological harm, the more likely it is that a higher compensation amount will be awarded.

In any data breach claim, it is important to work with an experienced legal team who can help assess the specific factors that may impact the amount of compensation available in your case. Our team of expert advisors can guide you through the process, help you understand your options, and connect you with data breach solicitors who can work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

How Could The Judicial College Guidelines Influence Compensation In A Data Breach Case?

The Judicial College Guidelines are a set of guidelines used by judges in England and Wales to determine the appropriate amount of compensation to be awarded in personal injury cases. While they are not binding, they are highly influential in shaping compensation awards in personal injury cases, including data breach cases.

In data breach cases, the guidelines can be used to determine the appropriate level of compensation for the psychological harm suffered by the victim. Some examples of the guideline brackets can be seen below. However, these are only very rough guides and your compensation could vary significantly form these.

• Less severe psychological injury – £1,540 to £5,860
• Severe psychological injury – £54,830 to £115,730
• Moderately severe psychological injury – £19,070 to £54,830
• Moderate psychological injury – £5,860 to £19,070

How Could A Data Breach Solicitor Influence Compensation For A Data Breach Claim?

A data breach solicitor can play a critical role in helping you maximise the compensation you could receive for a data breach claim. Here are a few ways in which they can influence the compensation you receive:

• Expert legal advice – A data breach solicitor can provide you with expert legal advice and guidance on your claim. They can assess the strength of your case, provide a realistic assessment of your chances of success, and advise you on the potential compensation you could receive based on the evidence and facts of your case.
• Evidence gathering – A solicitor can work with you to gather and preserve evidence that could support your claim, such as documentation of financial losses or medical records documenting psychological harm. They can also assist in obtaining expert witness reports where appropriate.
• Negotiation skills – A skilled data breach solicitor can negotiate on your behalf with the organisation responsible for the breach or their insurance company. They can use their expertise to build a strong case and negotiate for the maximum compensation available for your particular circumstances.
• Court representation – If the negotiation process fails to produce a satisfactory settlement, a data breach solicitor can represent you in court. They can advocate for your rights and work to secure a fair and just compensation award.

No Win No Fee Solicitors For Data Breach Claims – Start Your Claim Today

Working with a No Win No Fee solicitor under a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA) can be an effective way to pursue a data breach claim while minimising your financial risk. Under a CFA, you will only be charged by your solicitor if your claim is successful. If your claim is unsuccessful, you will not be required to pay them.

If your claim is successful, your solicitor will typically charge a success fee, which is a percentage of the compensation you receive. This fee is deducted from your compensation award, so you will not have to pay any upfront legal fees. The exact percentage charged as a success fee can vary, but it is typically capped at 25% of your compensation award.

The Conditional Fee Agreements Order 2013 sets out the rules and regulations that govern CFAs. These agreements are designed to make it easier for individuals to access justice by reducing the financial barriers associated with pursuing legal claims.

If you have been the victim of a data breach and are considering pursuing a claim, our team of expert advisors can help connect you with a No Win No Fee solicitor who can provide the legal expertise and support you need. Contact us today to learn more about your options and to start your claim.

• Telephone 0800 408 7827
• Fill out the contact form.
• Live chat with an advisor.

Further Guidance On What Factors Influence The Amount Of Compensation In A Data Breach Case

Now we have explain what factors influence the amount of compensation in a data breach claim, you can find out more about claiming by visiting the below links.

Data Breaches And Enforcement – Insight from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). 

Guide To GDPR – Further guidance from the Information Commissioner’s Office.

Guide to Cyber Security for Business – Advice from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

A Guide To Password Data Breach Claims – Learn about how password data breaches could lead to a. claim.

How Much Compensation Could My Data Breach Claim Be Worth? – Learn more about calculating data breach compensation.

Claiming Compensation For A Wrong Email Address Data Breach – Find out whether you could claim if your data was sent to the wrong email address.